Close to 500 British Heart Foundation (BHF) Heart Runners, including vlogger Jim Chapman, took to the streets of London last weekend for the Virgin Money London Marathon, in a united front against coronary heart disease, the UK’s single biggest killer.

The legendary event saw BHF Heart Runners join over 39,000 runners to pound 26.2 miles of the capital’s pavements and raise urgently needed funds for the nation’s heart charity.

This year’s BHF Heart Runners included heart transplant survivors, supporters running in memory of a loved one who has died from heart disease and people running on behalf of family members living with a debilitating heart condition.

Amongst those running was Sian Robinson, 32, from Whitland, who was running in memory of her grandfather and work colleague who passed away unexpectedly two years ago. To date, Sian has raised over £3,000 for the BHF’s life saving research.

Sian commented: “Taking part in the London Marathon was a huge challenge and an incredible experience. The atmosphere on the day was brilliant and I am proud to have been part of the Heart Runners team for such an iconic event. Knowing I was running for a wonderful charity made me determined to succeed.

“It was fantastic to have everyone there cheering me on to the finish, knowing that my sponsorship money will help the BHF to raise funds for the research needed to fight heart disease.”

Nancy Smyth, head of events at the BHF, said: “The BHF relies entirely on the generosity of our supporters to pay for life-saving research into heart disease. I would like to thank and congratulate everyone who took on this gruelling challenge, everyone who supported our runners and all of our volunteers.

“Heart disease is not beaten yet. Every mile our Heart Runners complete will help continue to fund essential research to benefit the 2.3 million people living with coronary heart disease in the UK.”

The BHF offers a variety of running challenges, from fun runs to marathons. Visit bhf.org.uk/events for more information.

To find out more about applying for a charity place at next year’s Virgin Money London Marathon visit Bhf.org.uk/londonmarathon.